Alliance seeks to boost traffic through upcounty hamlets

The Tri-Lakes Business Alliance is seeking to draw more traffic into the hamlets of northern Warren County to boost commerce and revitalize downtowns. Although Chestertown’s commerce particularly has been struggling in recent years, one leading example of success is Country Girl Crafts & Quilts which routinely attracts people to Chestertown for its unique offerings.
Photo by Thom Randall.

CHESTERTOWN  Motorists on the Northway should be encouraged to use exits 25 and 26 to reach Gore Mountain, members of an upcounty business association agreed Feb. 24. at the group’s meeting.

In an effort to boost commerce in Chestertown and Pottersville, the Tri-Lake Business Alliance is now seeking to have roadside signs erected near Exits 25 and 26 to direct traffic to Gore — one of the most popular winter destinations in the Adirondacks.

Now, signs on the Northway south of exits 17 and 23 direct Gore-bound traffic through off Exit 23 through Warrensburg. The Alliance members said Feb. 24 they at least want exits 25 and 26 promoted as optional routes to get to Gore.

In response to requests from the Tri-Lakes Alliance, town of Chester Supervisor Fred Monroe has been authorized by his town board to lobby state legislators to seek such additional signs.

The North Creek Business Alliance has pledged their support of this effort, it was reported at the Tri-Lake Alliance’s meeting Feb. 24. The latter group is also seeking additional signs along Rte. 8 to direct travelers to local businesses in compliance with the signage restrictions of the Adirondack Park Agency.

It was also suggested at the Tri-Lakes meeting that local business groups work together to seek signage through the state’s Scenic Byways program, and perhaps recruit the blessing of the Adirondack North Country Association in a campaign to better inform motorists where local businesses are located.

The Tri-Lakes Business Alliance voted at their meeting to adopt a mission statement. It reads: “...To improve the quality of life and promote economic prosperity in Northern Warren County through enhanced infrastructure, expanded tourism and beautification of our economic centers.”

Alliance members noted they are working on developing an ATV trail system and making progress on boosting the development of affordable housing and a small-scale downtown sewer system.